Volvo C70

By Conor Mills

January 2010

• Rating:

Another Volvo to be given a nip and tuck is the C70 coupé-cabrio. When it arrived four years ago, this was the world’s first four-seater with a folding hard-top. Fast-forward to 2010, and it’s no longer alone.

Its most recent rival is Lexus’ IS 250C, while sitting at the top of the class is BMW’s 3-Series Convertible. So, is the revised C70 up to the competition?

Redesigned front wings and distinctive new headlamps similar to the C30’s help give the Volvo extra personality, while at the rear are fresh LED lights borrowed from the XC60. Inside, the centre console has been subtly enhanced and softer fabric covers the seats.

Our car was fitted with a 2.4-litre five-cylinder D5 diesel unit – this, along with the rest of the oil-burning line-up, is expected to account for most sales. With 177bhp and 400Nm of torque, the C70 is no slouch, although it could be more refined.

Reasonable handling, fantastically comfortable seats and a smooth ride mean there is plenty to impress. Cabin noise levels are good, too, if not quite up to the same standard as in the Lexus or BMW. Starting from £26,995, the Volvo has price on its side, though, and is a fine all-rounder.

Rival: BMW 320d Conv.
Costing only a fraction more than the C70, this cabrio is very impressive. Its smaller engine returns 53.3mpg and emits only 140g/km of CO2. There’s plenty of boot space, and handling is at the top of its class.

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